Babes in Toyland

A Musical Play

Book and Lyrics by Glen MacDonough

The Classic Victor Herbert Operetta

Babes in Toyland premiered in 1903 and stands as one of the most celebrated works of composer Victor Herbert. This whimsical operetta blends elements of fantasy, nursery rhymes, and fairy tales, inviting audiences into a world of enchantment and adventure. MacDonough's work on Babes in Toyland captures both the innocence of childhood and the suspense of fairy-tale conflict, creating a captivating balance that has made it a holiday classic.

Set in an imagined realm where Mother Goose characters come to life, the musical follows the young protagonists, Alan and Jane, who seek refuge in Toyland after escaping their wicked Uncle Barnaby. Toyland is a wonderland populated with animated toys and nursery rhyme figures, offering a vibrant setting for both childlike wonder and dramatic tension. 

MacDonough’s book also introduces an enduring villain in Uncle Barnaby, who is one of early musical theater’s most memorable antagonists. His character is a cunning, almost pantomime villain, often played with exaggerated menace, which underscores the playful yet suspenseful tone of the operetta. The plot structure, filled with unexpected turns, mischief, and moments of peril, is softened by its colorful setting and fantastical characters establishing its long-standing appeal.

Despite being over a century old, Babes in Toyland remains significant in musical theater history. The musical has inspired countless adaptations, proving the timeless appeal of a well-crafted story set in an imaginative world where dreams, play, and danger coexist. Today, Babes in Toyland is considered a classic, enjoyed by audiences as much for its festive spirit as for its nostalgic nod to the innocence of youth and the wonders of imagination.

 ISBN 978-1727201758 

$14.95

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